A popping shoulder can be a real nuisance. As we age, our shoulders can begin to creak and pop, sometimes indicating an issue and sometimes simply wear and tear. So, when is a popping should a real problem?
Popping shoulder, sometimes called crepitus, can be expected. Some sounds the shoulder will make are not unusual, but shoulders can sometimes begin popping, creaking, or grinding in a way that isn’t normal. In this case, it will be essential to be seen by a doctor. Crepitus is not a condition. However, it is a symptom of what could be one of many conditions. Here are some examples of conditions that can cause crepitus or popping shoulder.
What Conditions Cause Popping Shoulder?
Some conditions that cause shoulder joint popping can be remedied by stretching, anti-inflammatory medicine, or other treatments. But some of these conditions may be more serious. How will you know the difference? Here are the conditions that will be of no concern and those that you shouldn’t ignore.
Osteochondroma
This condition is characterized by the development of benign bone growth. The formation of the bone growth will cause a rub, grind, or popping sound in the shoulder. This type of shoulder joint popping is of no concern. Rarely will this type of growth cause secondary issues that need to be removed or repaired. Typically, this popping in the shoulder joint is not a health issue. It can be a bit of a nuisance, but nothing to worry about.
Cavitation
The creation of air bubbles or air pockets around the shoulder can be another cause of popping in the shoulder joint. How are the air bubbles created? Air or gas is sometimes released from the fluid sac in the shoulder when excessive movement occurs. When this gas is released, it can make a popping sound. The popping sound created from cavitation is not dissimilar to the sound made when you pop your knuckles. This is also a situation that is not cause for concern. This type of shoulder joint popping is not typically painful.
Scapulothoracic Bursitis
There are sacs of fluid that surround each joint in the body. These sacs are called bursa. These bursae can help cushion and lubricate the joints to protect the shoulder from injury. However, the bursa can become inflamed or irritated. This can create a popping in the shoulder joint coupled with pain and burning. This can create concern, and you may want to see a doctor, though it’s not typically an emergency.
Treating Scapulothoracic Bursitis
Bursitis treatment can be conservative, but it is important to obtain a diagnosis. Usually, treatment includes rest, icing, and the use of anti-inflammatory drugs. However, many patients benefit from cortisone injections. Occasionally, the bursa must be aspirated to remove fluid buildup in the sac. If all else fails and this painful shoulder joint popping continues, surgery can be performed to treat bursitis. Occasionally, the entire sac will need to be removed.
Bone Fractures
Bone fractures are a reason to see a physician. Unfortunately, a shoulder joint popping can sometimes mean an existing bone fracture. In the case of a bone fracture, you will likely know it has happened and realize that you will need treatment and help.
Treatment for Bone Fractures
Shoulder bone fractures can be treated in several ways.
- Immobilization
- Ice
- Pain Medication
- Physical Therapy
More complex fractures may be treated as follows.
- Fixation
- Shoulder Replacement
Rotator Cuff Injuries
Sometimes, a rotator cuff can be so seriously injured that there is popping in the joint.
Osteoarthritis
Arthritis in the joint can cause the cartilage to decrease or even disappear altogether. This is an entirely normal part of the aging process but can cause popping in the shoulder joint. In addition to popping, osteoarthritis will cause pain and stiffness.
There are several treatment protocols for osteoarthritis. These treatments include:
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy
- General pain relief
- Shoulder replacement surgery
Labral Tears
Labral tears are a more significant shoulder injury that can create a popping sound. Still, they can also cause a severe degree of pain, a lack of range of movement, and sometimes a cessation of movement altogether. A labral tear can be caused by a fall, a pull to the arm, or a more severe injury.
Treatment for Labral Tears
The initial treatment for a labral tear would include rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy. This is often an adequate treatment, and the labrum will be healed. However, sometimes, a labral tear requires surgery. This surgery would entail either removing the labrum or repairing and reattaching the torn tendons using screws and pins. Whether surgery is needed or not, a patient will require physical therapy and rest to allow the labrum to heal fully.
Conclusion
Popping of the shoulder joint can be a nuisance, but it can also indicate a much more significant issue. If the shoulder joint popping becomes painful or ongoing, it may be time to schedule an appointment with a physician who can help you. When in doubt, get it checked out.
Village Emergency Centers
When seeking care for an injured, popping, or stressed shoulder, look no further than Village Emergency Centers. We offer the most comprehensive care at one of Texas’s most prestigious medical centers. For orthopedic care, we have the most skilled physicians in the area. Whatever the need, no matter the hour, we will be there to show compassionate care and help you with no wait times, friendly staff, and a very experienced medical team. We are open 24 hours a day and ready to assist you with your emergency needs.